Fingers crossed, we're done sharing stories about the bounty scandal, the legacy this year's team was burdened with and now leaves behind. From that angle, a quiet offseason is inviting for this organization.

On the field, the 7-8 Saints kept their playoff hopes alive longer than some expected following a 1-4 start, leaving one reporter to ask Vitt what might have happened if New Orleans snuck into January play. The coach wanted nothing to do with what-ifs.

"If my aunt had a beard, she'd be my uncle," Vitt quipped, and if the Saints were a better team in 2012, we'd be looking forward -- not back -- on this season.